Among the WHO 'Best Buys' for prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases, the intervention consistently rated as the most cost-effective single measure for reducing cardiovascular disease burden at population level is:

• A Universal statin prescription for all adults above 40 years
• B Screening all adults annually with ECG
• C Mass media campaigns promoting gym membership
• D Increasing excise taxes on tobacco products ✓

Explanation

WHO's Best Buys list identifies tobacco tax increases as among the most cost-effective interventions available, generating revenue while reducing consumption, with greatest impact on the poor who are most price-sensitive. Other Best Buys include smoke-free policies, salt reduction and affordable multidrug therapy for high-risk individuals. Universal statins, routine ECG screening and fitness-related campaigns are not classified as Best Buys because of lower cost-effectiveness or lack of evidence.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

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